It was 1967, and we had just moved to a new town, for an 11 Y/O meant a new school. Coming from a dysfunctional home, with an alcoholic father that was often abusive, this change was not easy for me at all. While it was a brand new home my parents had built and I finally had my own bedroom in a much bigger house nice neighborhood, for an 11 Y/O that was often the Mother to the Mother and her 6 Y/O brother it was not a happy time for me to be honest. Yes, kids should be happy, they shouldn’t have to worry about family life, the dad drinking and coming home hurting the mother. But, let me tell you it happens so much more than people realize. You see I think for the most part to the outside world, we looked like an all-American family. That was not the case at least through my eyes. My Mother loved my father very much, one would have too to put up with what she did! She was pretty, smart, and have a very loving supportive family, yet we would move out only to move back time and time again.
Fast forward, it was Christmas break when my parents moved, and removed me from school to start a new one after the 1st of the year. That would be awful for me, at that school I was bullied because at that time I was quiet and meek, hard to believe now huh? God can change all things! I was never happy at that school and as soon as I turn 15 I went to a vocational school where I took cosmetology. It was right up my alley, the kids were cool not as judgemental as the other school and let me just be me. I never told my parents about the bullying, I kept it to myself. One of our neighbors and my mother’s friend would take us to school sometimes and she would hear them heckle me. She did try t stop it but, it continued. When I see that going on today on the internet or anywhere, it sets me off! It was hurtful and something I had never encountered and trust me I had seen way too much as a child. I carried that for many years and allowed it to hinder my own self-worth. If you see that going on in this world please speak up, stop it! While I never felt like it was so bad that I would take my own life many do. I was a pretty strong girl, I had to be.
I did mention earlier that it affected me for several years into my early adulthood. But, once I gave it to Christ and left it there for good, He opened up so many new things for me. The self-doubt, my own, started to take a turn for the better, and I realized that I was important, I mattered, and I was not any of the things other kids might have said. I think I was one of the lucky ones, many never get passed being bullied, and some do take their own lives. I had an amazing Grandmother, and she was my sounding board when I was young. Every once in a while those old feelings try to push their way back into my head even after all these years. It’s the devil I recognize it right away and I shut it down and remember that I am a child of God, and I do not have to prove anything to anyone other than Him about who I am. I can tell you this I was always on high alert with my children and tried hard to make sure none of that was going on in their lives as children.
Why this story you ask? And why here? Well, I saw a story of a young teen recently that took their own life because of bullying in school, and we do not know what that child was going through at home either. It hurt my heart to read that, I know for a fact that God always had His hand on me, and I’ve shared that with all of you. He has covered me all my life. Again if you know a child or teen going through this and you can help, please do so. It might mean life or death to someone. The Bullies Change You, is the title, and let me tell you they do, they made me more determined to be the person I am today. Not perfect at all but, caring and always want to help when and wherever I can.
Have a wonderful day.
Thank you for sharing your experiences. ❤️
I was very shy growing up…for me, the bullying started in the 7th grade. I stsrted Junior High School back then. I will be 76 in July and the feelings of being “inferior” still return in certain situations. I realized as an adult that I’ve always had depression. Never told my parents how I felt or about the bullying in school. I had wonderful parents but didn’t want to cause them worry.
I’ve gotten much stronger mrntally, as I’ve aged;
I pray and give most of the feeling to God…but, cannot forget completely.
I totally understand.. Bless you.
My father was a alcoholic too! I hated the way he was when he was drunk. That being said there was always food on the table an the bills were always paid. Sorry you were bullied in school, but we have to give it to God and leave it in the past. God Bless you
Same for us he took care of the home, bills, food, clothes, all of our needs in that way always.
An inspiring story .. I love your blog❤️
Thank you, Sherry, I hope all os well your way.
J
It’s sad to see that there are still kids getting bullied. I was bullied for being fat and called names. I still remember the kids who poked fun at me. It’s hard to let go, isn’t it Debbie? I love your stories and love the uplifting posts you put on Facebook.
Cheryl, it can be yes. In my case, I was the new kid at school. I was slim, shy, and kinda introverted at 10. So, I didn’t speak up or out for myself for a while. I learned to find my voice. I also know now that the kid that started it was very troubled he ended up in prison later on in his life. He got a few others to join him because he probably bullied them if they didn’t. Sadly most bullies are not happy people, but that still doesn’t make it right. I forgave them long ago and moved forward with who I was, not as much of what others thought about me.
Great testimony dear ((hugs))
🙂
Dear Debbie,
I am glad you had your Grandma to help you and your Mom’s friend. Teachers were no help back then. I am glad you felt the protection of our Lord at a young age.l; you were so blessed. And you are a strong woman who speaks out about bullies. You are heard. 💖
They are still not much help, sadly this goes on daily in all schools. Teachers, some just turn away.
I am so sorry you had to go through that, Debbie! You are strong in Him!✝️ It is so sad this is happening everywhere, even in my small town!😢 Thank you for sharing! Love, Susan
Love you, Susan.
So much of this going on! So sad! My thirteen year old nephew too his life at his school last year in the bathroom!
I am so sorry, we need to pay more attention to this.
Thanks for sharing your story. Yes, the world is a mean place. Hugs my friend
It is and has been for years, and getting meaner!
Thank-you for sharing, beautiful testimony.
You’re welcome, I see it more and more today with kids and it really does bother me
I absolutely love your post and testimony. I hated being bullied and never told my parents or sisters. I remember being bullied in high school. People can be so mean and cruel.
Thank you for sharing. Love to you my dear friend.
Yes, they sure can, sister! But, God is good and He sees all…